While Iceland is known as the Land of Fire and Ice, there is one very important element that should also be mentioned: water. Besides the country’s sweeping landscapes, breathtaking views and fiery volcanoes, the country is also known for something else. Iceland’s waterfalls are famous in their own right and therefore deserve their own essay. They’re so well-known, they’ve even been featured as filming locations in movies such as the opening scene of Prometheus. Let’s take a look at the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland. They are one of the top things to see here and should definitely be a part of the itinerary for your Scandinavian adventure. 

The powerful blue waters of Dettifoss make it one of Iceland's most beautiful waterfalls

The Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Iceland – Dettifoss

Leading the charge is Europe’s most powerful waterfall, Dettifoss. It earned that distinction due to the pure force of its water flow. The mist from its long drop can be seen from quite far away. Located in Vatnajökull National Park in Northeast Iceland, the falls receive most of their slate-colored water from the Vatnajökull glacier. Check out this awesome scene from Ridley Scott’s Prometheus to see the power of Dettifoss waterfall.

The Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Iceland – Gullfoss

This waterfall is really cool. It has not one but two drops and is definitely an Iceland must see. On sunny days, the water looks golden brown and this is where the waterfall gets its name from. Gullfoss roughly translates to “Golden waterfall” in Icelandic. Gullfoss is located in the southwestern part of Iceland. Its location in a canyon of the Hvítá River is what gives it its unique double cascade.

The beautiful Gullfoss waterfall at sunset

The Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Iceland – Seljalandsfoss

Another one of Iceland’s most beautifully striking waterfalls is Seljalandsfoss. You’ll probably recognize this one from postcards or photographs of Iceland because it’s quite famous. You know that iconic shot of an Icelandic sunset peeking out from behind a waterfall plunging from a rocky arch? That’s Seljalandsfoss. It’s absolutely stunning and perhaps one of the most picturesque images that you’ll find anywhere on the planet.

The Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Iceland – Skógafoss

This waterfall gets its name from the nearby Skóga River, located close to Iceland’s Highlands. These used to be sea cliffs but the coastline has since receded. Skógafoss is one of Iceland’s biggest waterfalls and you are quite likely to see a rainbow in its spray when you visit. According to legend, there’s Viking treasure buried here. You can find a ring from this supposed collection at the Skógar Museum.

Kirkjufellsfoss at sunset with Kirkjufell mountain in the background

The Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Iceland – Others Not To Be Missed

Iceland has so many beautiful waterfalls, we can’t possibly cover all of them here. Some others of special note are Dynjandi, known as The Jewel of the Westfjords, Goðafoss, also known as “The Beauty” as compared to Dettifoss’ affectionate moniker “The Beast”, Glymur, Iceland’s second largest waterfall, and Kirkjufellsfoss, your postcard perfect picture in Snaefellsnes Peninsula. 

The Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Iceland – How to See Them

So what’s the best way to experience all this natural beauty? One of the best approaches to exploring everything Iceland has to offer is by driving. You can either rent a car or go by motorhome. You set your own pace, decide where you want to go and stay for as long as you like. Either way, make sure you don’t miss out on some of Iceland’s most beautiful waterfalls.

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